NJ Thoracic Surgeon Runs Marathons and Loves a Challenge
December 18, 2023
With laser focus on her career, thoracic surgeon Rachel NeMoyer, MD, MPH, is always eager for the next challenge in her specialized field of chest surgery. She completed her fellowship at the Cleveland Clinic, where she excelled, and has contributed to notable clinical trials and publications.
“One of the reasons I came to Hackensack Meridian Health was to be mentored by Thomas Bauer, M.D.,” says Dr. NeMoyer. Dr. Bauer is chair of Surgery and Thoracic Surgery at Jersey Shore University Medical Center and is recognized for his expertise in lung surgery and robotic surgery. “He is so involved in research and is an expert in diaphragm paralysis. I want to emulate him and make a difference on a grand scale. We both love what we do, and working with someone with a similar mindset is a remarkable opportunity.”
Dr. NeMoyer says she is happy she chose Hackensack Meridian Health because of the support structure it provides. “Even the office team is very supportive of me, and this collaborative group is committed to excellent patient care,” she says. “It’s a happy environment.”
Although she wishes she could play the guitar, Dr. NeMoyer keeps her hiking gear, snowshoes and skis at the ready. She’d love to visit Patagonia in South America and explore the mountains. She also wants to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. But in the meantime, she can’t wait to see her next patient.
Why did you choose medicine?
My sister has a genetic disorder, and I saw my mom manage breast cancer, then a bone marrow transplant. I think medicine just called out to me. My interactions with patients bring me great joy. They trust me with their lives. It’s a lot to think about—that my opinions and decision-making need to be what’s best for them.
Tell us about your best friend.
My best friend is my dog, Klaus, my German Shorthaired Pointer. He’s spotted, brown and white, and he is a ball of energy! He’s the only one who can keep up with me. We run together every morning and walk in the afternoon. I love to run, I completed the Cleveland Marathon twice during my fellowship and I ran the Buffalo Marathon while in medical school.
Why do you love the outdoors so much?
It’s the fresh air. I even run in the snow when it’s ice cold. Maybe that’s because of what I see in some of my patients who can’t do that—who are in the hospital for a long time. I get to go home every single day, go outside and breathe the air. It really puts things into perspective for me. Being able to understand that life is precious allows me to live life to the fullest.
Sports are important to your time off, but what else is fun?
You should try my red velvet cookies, carrot cake or Tres Leches cheesecake. I grew up baking with my mom, and we still trade recipes. I really enjoy cooking too. Last year my co-residents and fellows held a Friendsgiving, and I made the entire spread.
Next Steps & Resources:
- Meet our source: Rachel NeMoyer, MD, MPH
- To make an appointment with Dr. NeMoyer or a thoracic surgeon near you, call 800-822-8905 or visit our website.
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